My grandparents were huge fans of doc watson, and the first time i heard dust in the baggie ,I thought it was roll in my sweet baby's arms , because it sounded so similar. I'm not a musician just live listening go musjc
I know Billy! I would love to see you two do a video! I just saw him last weekend at Hoxeyville Music Festival! I’ve been introducing him for years! I remember him playing in between sets when he didn’t have his own set when he was about 19, I think. Now he headlines! I’m super proud of him! ❤️
its so pure and raw. like a concert setting is supposed to be well performed and acoustically as good as possible. that couch version is a testament to how far billy will go. he doesnt need a single thing. he barely even remembered the name of the song when he performed that. it was just "oh yeah, i can play that one i just wrote."
Metal Guy Here. Can confirm that transition from metal to Bluegrass is a real thing. I love both. For me, it's the aggressive, technical ability and the fun factor in watching with amazement the mad skills of these musicians. Billy has a metal heart, BTW.
My uncle used to say that Metal is to Bluegrass as Punk is to Country. I asked what he meant, and he just said that Metal players and Bluegrass players tend towards technical complexity and raw emotion. Punk and Country are people who tell great stories but can't play a damn lick. He was biased. ;)
@@MountainsBreath yeah, but how many of those elite country guys are also Bluegrass players? Mind you, I'm not talking about people like Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, Glen Campbell or others, nor even phenomenal finger-style pickers like Willie Nelson. I was talking about the people whose name no one knows outside their local area. People playing local bars and weddings, doing cover songs. You go see a no-name country band, and meh. They'll be okay. You go see some no-name Bluegrass players and odds are you'll be deeply impressed.
I think Billy's original basement video of this song was the most impressive. B/c he's doing all parts himself, including vocals, lead and rhythm (of all string instruments)
30 seconds into the couch vid I was like “This guy is the real thing.” Even though I’d never heard of him before. Thing is he’s a great songwriter too. Damn. Turns out I love bluegrass. I just didn’t know it yet.
David Laferney check out this ,Billy Strings and a kid named Taz. Start at around 40 minutes.. It's absolutely amazing. Not to say the first 40 isn't, but just trust me.. It's epic..
Yes, his lyrics are impressive. His playing is what draws you in but the lyrics are what make you stick around. My son and new daughter-in-law just walked down the aisle to “Love like me.” Tears flowed.
What most impresses me about his solo being a guitar player myself, is EVERY note in that solo rings clear. Not once did he miss a note or muffle one going that fast with a flat pick, on an ACOUSTIC. Super hard solo, out of this world to do it that cleanly.
That's the kind of thing that rocks me about illy Strings, and Tommy Emmanuel as well.. it's the level of skill, precision, and comfort-zone from these monsters at these outrageous tempos that humbles us mortals.
I've been a guitar player for 40+ years, and been around a lot of great guitarists, especially in the bluegrass scene. That being said, Ive never seen ANYBODY that could flat pick like Billy.
He's insane for sure, but I really think the argument could be made that Bryan Sutton is the best out there currently. He's got a few years on Molly and Billy though. He's my favorite for sure.
As a person who was born and raised on bluegrass, turned metal head, then come back to being a banjo player in a bluegrass band, it makes me so happy to see other people begin to realize how impressive bluegrass is. It's not just "hillbilly mountain music" it is its own breed and not many people can pull it off
Bluegrass, in every one of its instruments, is one of the most difficult forms of music to play and requires a level of talent and physical exertion not needed in almost any other genre of music, and yet is one of the most under appreciated of all Genres.
All the people saying Billy Strings is one of the greatest ever probably don't realize that a lot of Bluegrass players consider him to be an excellent guitarist but far from one of the greats ever...yet. But if you're not used to some high speed, high precision flat-picking, this looks like wizardry. And even if you're a flat-picking master, this still sounds damn clean.
As a drummer....you blew my mind when talking about listening to each instrument as a piece of a kit. I never thought about that, but you're absolutely right.
that's interesting... since I started listening to music I always hear or try to differentiate what instruments r being used in a song ... I noticed I subconsciously filter out all sounds until I only hear a specific instrument ... doesn't work with all songs tho ... I'm pretty sure this must be some kind of autism... no wonder my son is autistic....
I actually met Billy a while ago when he came to Phoenix and played at the MIMs museum music festival. He was such a laid back and cool person. Even recognized me by my name from me commenting on his FB posts. I was blown away. Hands down one of the best guitarists I’ve seen.
Siegfried Kaufmann very cool story. I discover d this kid about two weeks ago. As soon as I burn all my guitars I’m going to find a place to see him live ASAP. I haven’t seen a guitar player that good in a very long time.
@@russellsalsman8425 LOLOL Do yourself that favor.. Last time I saw him was late night at winterwondergrass. I was front and center on the floor. Pretty small stage in a small building. Mind blowing.
It always blows my mind when people can just pick it up so easily. I have to work so hard at guitar. I mean, I know this takes tons of hard work but my hands and fingers just do not move like that 😂
Absolute most impressive lead on acoustic ive ever heard. I always tell people, I dont play the guitar, i play songs on the guitar. These types of dudes play the guitar.
He’s a “hometown “ kid. Used to see him busk on a downtown bridge with his friends. His Dad taught him how to play. He went off into metal, then came back to the stuff his dad taught him. He just did a tour with just him and his Dad. Very Cool stuff! :). Thanks for the breakdown, because he is definitely hard to follow. Lol. :)
i cant tell you, in a current world of stiflement and restriction and barriers, how innocent and breath of fresh air your memory that he was busking on a bridge sounds. The kids in the top 1%, and i could listen to him all day.
@@meisterlymanu5214 the kid is the top of the one percent. I cannot think of a single person who could touch this kid. This kid is a phenom of phenoms.
I have tried for years to simply play the guitar and fail, horrendously fail. Seeing your knowledge filleted through Billy's performance is truly a hallmark of a great teacher. Then to see you struck by his talent to move through the notes with your intimate knowledge of how difficult it is gave me a new appreciation and a higher understanding of how great he really is. We are both listening to the same song, just not in the same way, and yet we both are amazed. Thank you for giving me new eyes and ears to hear his music, appreciate your video immensely.
@@matthewgrubb318it left the big stages for more than a Decade that’s for sure. Old Crowe was about the only band that got decent non bluegrass centered festival exposure. My dad grew me up on Alisson Krauss and Union Station and Old Crowe but even when I was real young we almost never had opportunities to see them. They were either states away or Old Crowe was playing in a 21+ establishment.
One thing I love about Billy is the passion that shows when he is playing. He almost seems surprised at himself sometimes. Absolutely love everything he does. And kudos to you sir. You aren’t a slouch at flat picking that’s for damn sure. Keep the videos coming my friend.
I think sometimes Billy is just like I’m not sure what’s going on but my hands are going crazy right now. He’s just there for the ride while his fingers go mad
Never really fully appreciated bluegrass music, but that’s just some plain and simple badass playing right there. No doubt, that flat picking is truly mind melting. Very impressive and much appreciated. Thanks, Michael!
I have been playing guitar since I was 6 years old. I am now about to turn 45 in a month. Not sure how many years of guitar playing that adds up to, because I am a professional musician and therefore allergic to math. When I first heard Billy Strings I was almost angry at how ridiculously good that kid is. What was more frustrating was the fact that I couldn't quite put my finger on exactly what it was that was so amazing to me about his playing. This video really helped to clear that up for me. The guy is the Michael Jordan of flat-picking, which is a style that I am brand new to. I got some habits to break.
His solo version sitting on the couch is impressive.... he barely misses a single note in that version, with solos at every break... he’s next level with that guitar bluegrassy sound...
@@guitardudebanjoman lol playing like he did in that old video he couldn't play worth a damn? Lol dude I started playing 3 weeks ago, come watch me play the intro to nothing else matters on my acoustic...I'll show you someone who can't play worth a damn lol
Its amazing to play with a musical prodigy ! Billy played guitar in the womb because you know damn well his daddy was playin 20 long years before some dust in the baggie 💖✌
For the simple mountain folk never afforded college or private lessons baffled by this dude speakin in tongues I will attempt to translate...It's a boom-chuck, lightnin step, barn burner with some chicken pickin, and pappy's lick at every turn around same as the last song and the next one. If this translation un-twisted your britches be neighborly and read it for those who can't.
Reminds me of a guy in the 70s named Sam Bush. Look what a legend he became. This guy will be around for decades, unless an asteroid hits him. Hes great and inspiring to watch. I get choked up watching this shit. Good on you.
"This dude sounds like a young Doc Watson". What a compliment. But the kid backs it. It's nice to see some youth (w/ a slight edgy look no less) in keeping the bluegrass traditions alive.
Completely agree! Doc had a huge influence on him (obviously). Billy's dad is an amazing guitar player in his own right as well. He does a great collab with the Del McCoury Band that is awesome.
I got to meet billy years ago. Went to a bluegrass thing on a whim. Friend got a ticket for me. I grew up playing metal in Michigan. Never cared for country or anything else other than metal. Billy and his mando player don julian shredded my face off on a small stage. Just the two of them and I was musical changed from that point on. He jammed out in the lobby of the hotel with a bunch of random people after his show. Dude is on another level and his music contributions will continue to be great. Thanks for the vid and some awesome insight into the intricacies of a bluegrass band.
Bluegrass Festivals and conventions are the best....after the show everyone's just hanging out jamming together playing old standards. It's an amazing tradition.
That video where he talks about how he came up with his name, then plays Late July is great. That was the first song I head from him after looking him up because he was the opener at a Devil Makes Three concert I was going to at Red Rocks.
@@sam_s_ That video is honestly the definitive edition for me. His studio release feels too slow and sleepy, while that live performance of Late July feels perfect.
I wanted to see him at red rocks so bad. I was Lyft driving people in and out of the venue though. His studio release sucked compared to the video that he tells the story of his name. And I haven’t really heard much else from him I actually like.
@@sam_s_ Thats how i found out about him as well. He opened up solo at 930 club for dm3 and no one was really expecting anything from him. The second that creaky soulful voice came on the PA the whole room collectively got whiplash and was glued to the stage.1 year later his name was everywhere, I think thats the fastest ive seen an artist blow up in that scene.
Billy is a good friend of mine... Kind of a little brother adopted into my family. I just loved seeing a good guitar player struggle with his guitar playing! 😆 I knew the first time I seen him play he was speical. He was unreal as a kid. He really took off at 16, 17, 18. He's played this song in my living room a million times! 😆 Also yes he was a metal head and was in a metal band when he was a kid. Doc Watson was his favorite blue grass player and who he looked up to. Him and his dad... His dad gave him the love for blue grass.
Your first statement is me all the way. Metal head from the start of my passion for music, then I found old crow medicine show and the devil makes three. I am still however a metal head at heart.
it's great watching you break down something that you don't know "note for note" yet. Most teachers tell you some stuff. Good teachers teach you how to learn and aren't afraid to admit they don't know everything.
Dude you look like a kid in a candy store watching billy play this song awesome to watch even if you don’t like bluegrass you have to respect his playing
I've never really played bluegrass but decided to learn this song and solo, and it is about the most difficult tune I've ever tackled. I still can only play his solo cleanly at about 90% speed lol. It blows my mind that Billy can just rip a blazing fast solo like this totally improvising. When I'm improvising I typically hear what I want to play in my head before I play it, but this is so dang fast I have no clue how billy is able to hear this in his head and play it on the spot. Flatpicking is no joke at all, and absolutely every single genre of guitarist out there can learn a TON just by learning stuff like this. If you can pick every single note of a solo like this, you will DEFINITELY become a better player in any style out there. Billy's the real deal.
I have an almost exact testimony as you. I first started playing guitar when I was 13 playing metal and even ended up in a MetallicA cover band playing the drums. I heard bluegrass all my life growing up because my family was from Kentucky and WV but never cared for it until I heard what is now my mentor, play the banjo and I was hooked and had to learn how to play. I went home and sold my B.C. Rich Warlock and Crate amp to buy a banjo! It's been almost 20 years and I never went back to metal. Good vid!
Billy Strings - Train, Train (live at the Muddy Creek Music Hall) is one of the most insane performances I've ever seen. Even if you don't react to it, do yourself a favor and give it a listen.
This guy's is the definition of those who can't do, teach. And I don't mean that in a bad way. He's clearly very talented. His understanding and explanation of what Billy is doing shows he knows how to teach it and do it. He just can't do it himself which shows what it takes to be a master like Billy and those he looks up to. I have no doubt that the next great is learning from the host of this video.
No he isn't. The banjo players name is Billy Failing and he is from Portland/Oregon. He got an own album and is a friend of Billy for 10 years. He is one of the best banjo players I have ever seen in my life. The most amazing thing for me is that they are always improvising their solos... just crazy stuff.
I had a metalhead friend try to tell me he was going to move to nashville and work as a studio musician because country was so much easier. I told him I LOVE metal but you're insane, Nashville is the lions den of musicians.
Well if it's those pop country genre, I couldn't see why he wouldn't manage. In my country Sweden there were a bunch of metalheads in the 2000s who started making radio pop because it seemed easier and they became the most successful pop writer in the world (most Grammys or whatever)
One of my strongest memories of seeing "Old and In The Way" was the way they danced around each other to create the mix. I think they had two mikes, one overhead for Vasser, one mike on a mike stand. When I recently told someone about that he called it the "Grand Olde Opry dance".
Hearing your analysis really helps me understand why I just can't get enough Billy & the boys. I'm a musician and love to hear your take on this crazy good stuff.
"Forgot how he got down there". Had me rolling man! Watching you get as close as you do to he sound has me amazed. Granted I'm just a drummer who likes to dabble in the ol 6 string......... y'all are nuts!!!
I appreciate your humility above all...I know very little about guitar, other than Billy Strings is impressive as hell. But you are an amazing teacher!
Same thing, metal head from Tulsa then moved to Tahlequah Oklahoma. Befriended Bobby and Thomas Trapp and took several trips to the flat picking contests in Winfield Kansas. Changed my life.
Watching your videos six months into trying to learn how to play has me feeling like a toddler at the grownups table. I don’t know what you’re talking about, but I know I love it!
Billy started off at the age of about 4 playing bluegrass with his Dad, then he turned to metal. Now he’s back to bluegrass. It’s so fun to watch him flat pick those solos that I find myself rewinding them over and over. Can’t wait to watch him at the Gorge Amphitheater WA in August!
My screamo-metalhead godson turned me on to this guy about a month ago. Apparently Billy's been tearing it up for several years but somehow I missed it. Now I'm all about Billy Strings. Thanks Michael for showcasing this awesomely talented guy.
I feel this so hard. I was neck deep in Tool and NIN and such when someone first hit me with Phish, then Del McCoury and Steve Earl with The Mountain. Life changing in very positive ways. Keep up the awesome work man, love your content.
I’ve recently found Billy Strings and it’s made me a fan of this kind of Bluegrass. This music gives me joy and it’s great to find other folks who enjoy it like I do!
Not only is Billy strings playing that guitar like no one else he also is singing at the same time. I couldn't even attempt what this man does it's amazing the guy is just amazing
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My grandparents were huge fans of doc watson, and the first time i heard dust in the baggie ,I thought it was roll in my sweet baby's arms , because it sounded so similar. I'm not a musician just live listening go musjc
They unsubbed me again
Meth is a muthalicka my friends.
Turmoil and tinfoil is 10000 times more impressive...please do it.
I know Billy! I would love to see you two do a video! I just saw him last weekend at Hoxeyville Music Festival! I’ve been introducing him for years! I remember him playing in between sets when he didn’t have his own set when he was about 19, I think. Now he headlines! I’m super proud of him! ❤️
Billy Strings' guitar faces always look like he just picked up the instrument for the first time and is pleasantly surprised at how good he is.
underrated comment :D
This is surprisingly accurate.
there's a guy Clark song called "the guitar" which sums this up perfectly
was gonna say the same thing XD
Sold his soul to the devil and it still blows him away with the talent he was given by the Prince of darkness
Nothing beats the version when Billy's playing this on the couch because the guy who is high AF in the background is AWESOME...
its so pure and raw. like a concert setting is supposed to be well performed and acoustically as good as possible. that couch version is a testament to how far billy will go. he doesnt need a single thing. he barely even remembered the name of the song when he performed that. it was just "oh yeah, i can play that one i just wrote."
Frodo, ya his feet don’t move and that cigg never gets lit.
You mean the guy who looks like he has a quest to give you? Agreed, that video is the best version.
The guy that looks like he gives out side quests?!
So true
Metal Guy Here. Can confirm that transition from metal to Bluegrass is a real thing. I love both. For me, it's the aggressive, technical ability and the fun factor in watching with amazement the mad skills of these musicians. Billy has a metal heart, BTW.
My uncle used to say that Metal is to Bluegrass as Punk is to Country. I asked what he meant, and he just said that Metal players and Bluegrass players tend towards technical complexity and raw emotion.
Punk and Country are people who tell great stories but can't play a damn lick.
He was biased. ;)
@@craenor country players are fuckin elite dude
@@MountainsBreath yeah, but how many of those elite country guys are also Bluegrass players? Mind you, I'm not talking about people like Chet Atkins, Jerry Reed, Glen Campbell or others, nor even phenomenal finger-style pickers like Willie Nelson.
I was talking about the people whose name no one knows outside their local area. People playing local bars and weddings, doing cover songs.
You go see a no-name country band, and meh. They'll be okay.
You go see some no-name Bluegrass players and odds are you'll be deeply impressed.
He used to play in metal bands, I saw an interview where he said that
You should check out "Can't Stop Now" by New Grass Revival. Absolutely shreds
I think Billy's original basement video of this song was the most impressive.
B/c he's doing all parts himself, including vocals, lead and rhythm (of all string instruments)
I agree. Wish Michael checked out that one instead
Thinking is really difficult, to be honest. Keep at it and you might see some improvement eventually.
@@workshoptelescope Damn... you're joke is as late to the party as you are to this post..
You'll get it one day lil guy 😉
Billy looks like he’s morphed into green shirt guy from his original video
TheBrunsonchase hahaha
Some say that dude still hasn't lit his smoke to this day...
A.K.A side quest guy. Look where this quest got Billy. Don't underestimate side quests.. Haha
So damn funny y'all!!
😂😂😂
Billy lookin at his hand like: "Y'all just see what my fingers did!!?" Lol
Just let Billy play he is very good and fast
He supriced himself.
@@kipponi I was pretty supriced
ikr lol dude kills me
Billy lookin at his hand like : I cant believe what my hand just did! Lol
I would like to take a moment here and mention how amazing it is that Jared Walker can do that without the mandolin catching on fire.
Ever heard Ronnie McCoury?
Loads of talent on that stage.
I think I saw his fingers smoking though.🤣
Aint that the truth...lol
He was cutting it up on Halloween. Straight 🔥 😭😭
30 seconds into the couch vid I was like “This guy is the real thing.” Even though I’d never heard of him before. Thing is he’s a great songwriter too. Damn. Turns out I love bluegrass. I just didn’t know it yet.
czcams.com/video/ysqKnE7U_j4/video.html
David Laferney check out this ,Billy Strings and a kid named Taz. Start at around 40 minutes.. It's absolutely amazing. Not to say the first 40 isn't, but just trust me.. It's epic..
Yes, his lyrics are impressive. His playing is what draws you in but the lyrics are what make you stick around. My son and new daughter-in-law just walked down the aisle to “Love like me.” Tears flowed.
What most impresses me about his solo being a guitar player myself, is EVERY note in that solo rings clear. Not once did he miss a note or muffle one going that fast with a flat pick, on an ACOUSTIC. Super hard solo, out of this world to do it that cleanly.
Right on the money. The precision needed in timing between the left and right hands to pull that off cleanly is truly mind blowing.
Haven’t had anyone blow me away like he’s has in almost 20 years.
Flat picking like that is STUPID hard. We can all play that fast with hammer ons and pull offs. Straight flat picking is next level.
Lol we can?
That's the kind of thing that rocks me about illy Strings, and Tommy Emmanuel as well.. it's the level of skill, precision, and comfort-zone from these monsters at these outrageous tempos that humbles us mortals.
I've been a guitar player for 40+ years, and been around a lot of great guitarists, especially in the bluegrass scene. That being said, Ive never seen ANYBODY that could flat pick like Billy.
Only Larry Keel can compare💪🖖🏼🙏🤙🏻
Molly Tuttle.
Chris Luquette, Bryan Sutton, Josh Williams, Jake Workman...they're out there.
He's insane for sure, but I really think the argument could be made that Bryan Sutton is the best out there currently. He's got a few years on Molly and Billy though.
He's my favorite for sure.
@@cszollinger here
czcams.com/video/cpTJi6mI0IU/video.html
As a person who was born and raised on bluegrass, turned metal head, then come back to being a banjo player in a bluegrass band, it makes me so happy to see other people begin to realize how impressive bluegrass is. It's not just "hillbilly mountain music" it is its own breed and not many people can pull it off
It’s acoustic tech metal basically
At the time "bluegrass" became a thing it was an attempt to take Appalachian string bands and give them a more technical quality akin to jazz.
Bluegrass, in every one of its instruments, is one of the most difficult forms of music to play and requires a level of talent and physical exertion not needed in almost any other genre of music, and yet is one of the most under appreciated of all Genres.
All the people saying Billy Strings is one of the greatest ever probably don't realize that a lot of Bluegrass players consider him to be an excellent guitarist but far from one of the greats ever...yet.
But if you're not used to some high speed, high precision flat-picking, this looks like wizardry. And even if you're a flat-picking master, this still sounds damn clean.
@@craenor yeah, I prefer the style of Tony Rice.
As a drummer....you blew my mind when talking about listening to each instrument as a piece of a kit. I never thought about that, but you're absolutely right.
Same here! Never thought of it that way but it instantly changed the way I heard this.
It’s true!
@@Guitargate absolutely. Blows my mind. I never would’ve thought about it in that way. I like it.
Training tacos
It’s raining tacos
that's interesting... since I started listening to music I always hear or try to differentiate what instruments r being used in a song ... I noticed I subconsciously filter out all sounds until I only hear a specific instrument ... doesn't work with all songs tho ... I'm pretty sure this must be some kind of autism... no wonder my son is autistic....
Perfect opportunity for Billy to make a video “Billy Strings Reacts to Guitar Teacher’s Reaction to Billy Strings”
Hope he doesn't ruin this opportunity
😂 that would be funny. IMO Billy is the best guitar player I have seen in the last 20 years.
Brilliant
I don't he would do that🤣
Hilarious 😀
Roy Clark was a great guitar picker that is often over looked. He could play the heck out of several instruments!
Roy is a top top guitar player of all time.
Check out Tom Bresch..
🎩⚜️🎩
Whenever Billy Strings plays, Doc Watson is looking down and Smiling.
So is ricky skaggs, and bill monroe
Doc wasnt a flat pick guy
@@zorton34 If he was really up there don't you think he'd be able to see?
The whole world smiles when this kid plays.
Rhumandlove doc Watson didn’t flat pick😂
I actually met Billy a while ago when he came to Phoenix and played at the MIMs museum music festival. He was such a laid back and cool person. Even recognized me by my name from me commenting on his FB posts. I was blown away. Hands down one of the best guitarists I’ve seen.
Siegfried Kaufmann very cool story. I discover d this kid about two weeks ago. As soon as I burn all my guitars I’m going to find a place to see him live ASAP. I haven’t seen a guitar player that good in a very long time.
He is without a doubt the most exciting thing to happen to guitar in a long time. Cheers P[>
That's great to hear, I was hoping he was like that in person. I hope the fame won't change that. He's so good that he needs to be known.
@@russellsalsman8425 LOLOL Do yourself that favor.. Last time I saw him was late night at winterwondergrass. I was front and center on the floor. Pretty small stage in a small building. Mind blowing.
100% agree, I got a chance to hang out with him at a bluegrass festival some years back. Just as you said, really solid, kind individual.
That grin on your face while you're watching this and evaluating it❤ absolutely priceless
I think it’s crazy that just from the opening sequence, you can already somewhat play the whole riff. It’s astonishing
He is without a doubt a talented guitarist
It always blows my mind when people can just pick it up so easily. I have to work so hard at guitar. I mean, I know this takes tons of hard work but my hands and fingers just do not move like that 😂
Was thinking same . Michael is very impressive
The dust in a baggie hes talking about is from hot cheetohs.
hot rails
Definitely Takis. Not Cheetos
So your implying cheetos is illegal to consume
White cheddar cheetos
The tweak is heavy
I'm a metal head myself, but I stumbled across Bill Strings several months back and immediately fell in love with his work. Dude is a badass.
I know right! He was in a metal band before this! He's a fucking metalhead! There's videos about it
Me too! Exactly
Did Billy's friend ever light that smoke?
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Side quest guy😂
Nope still has it. 🤣
He does on a side quest
😂😂🤣🤣🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂
Absolute most impressive lead on acoustic ive ever heard. I always tell people, I dont play the guitar, i play songs on the guitar. These types of dudes play the guitar.
“Turmoil and Tinfoil” is much more interesting from a theory perspective. Would love to hear why think the chords in that song “work”
Came here to say that exact thing.
czcams.com/video/fJmzS_Redh8/video.html
Here’s the link
When he performed Highway Hypnosis at Steamboat it blew my mind
Cuz Billy can make anything work
Agreed
He’s a “hometown “ kid. Used to see him busk on a downtown bridge with his friends. His Dad taught him how to play. He went off into metal, then came back to the stuff his dad taught him. He just did a tour with just him and his Dad. Very Cool stuff! :). Thanks for the breakdown, because he is definitely hard to follow. Lol. :)
Awsome!!
i cant tell you, in a current world of stiflement and restriction and barriers, how innocent and breath of fresh air your memory that he was busking on a bridge sounds. The kids in the top 1%, and i could listen to him all day.
@@meisterlymanu5214 the kid is the top of the one percent. I cannot think of a single person who could touch this kid. This kid is a phenom of phenoms.
I cant even understand how someone can just teach you how to play like that. I hate my fingers
@fred truth ! I know billy , his mom and my mom were best friends :) , good kid , amazing player ! He’s been playing for ever now ! Awesome picker !
I have tried for years to simply play the guitar and fail, horrendously fail. Seeing your knowledge filleted through Billy's performance is truly a hallmark of a great teacher. Then to see you struck by his talent to move through the notes with your intimate knowledge of how difficult it is gave me a new appreciation and a higher understanding of how great he really is. We are both listening to the same song, just not in the same way, and yet we both are amazed. Thank you for giving me new eyes and ears to hear his music, appreciate your video immensely.
Billy Strings brought the genre back into play
The genre never left. People weren’t paying attention
@@matthewgrubb318it left the big stages for more than a
Decade that’s for sure. Old Crowe was about the only band that got decent non bluegrass centered festival exposure. My dad grew me up on Alisson Krauss and Union Station and Old Crowe but even when I was real young we almost never had opportunities to see them. They were either states away or Old Crowe was playing in a 21+ establishment.
One thing I love about Billy is the passion that shows when he is playing. He almost seems surprised at himself sometimes. Absolutely love everything he does. And kudos to you sir. You aren’t a slouch at flat picking that’s for damn sure. Keep the videos coming my friend.
I think sometimes Billy is just like I’m not sure what’s going on but my hands are going crazy right now. He’s just there for the ride while his fingers go mad
Watch “Turmoil and Tinfoil” by Billy. Very unique and awesome.
absolutely my favorite song by billy
czcams.com/video/-8J4rrN3tgs/video.html
The jam in the van version is pretty dam solid. Honestly the whole JIV performance is great.
Yeah..... "Turmoil And Tinfoil" basically invented prog bluegrass.
I've mostly played rock music my entire life, but Billy makes me want to play bluegrass. He is such an amazing artist.
Back in the day I was a metal head! 23yrs ago my I went to a bluegrass show in Branson MO. BLEW MY MIND!!! Never looked back after that!!
This kid has had a guitar in his hands since he was three it’s gonna be hard to figure him out he’s awesome guitar player period
Never really fully appreciated bluegrass music, but that’s just some plain and simple badass playing right there. No doubt, that flat picking is truly mind melting. Very impressive and much appreciated. Thanks, Michael!
Mind melting!! Thx!
i’m so amazed that he can just easily fuckin play this from ear and just by having a quick look and go for it, he’s amazing
I have been playing guitar since I was 6 years old. I am now about to turn 45 in a month. Not sure how many years of guitar playing that adds up to, because I am a professional musician and therefore allergic to math. When I first heard Billy Strings I was almost angry at how ridiculously good that kid is. What was more frustrating was the fact that I couldn't quite put my finger on exactly what it was that was so amazing to me about his playing. This video really helped to clear that up for me. The guy is the Michael Jordan of flat-picking, which is a style that I am brand new to. I got some habits to break.
His solo version sitting on the couch is impressive.... he barely misses a single note in that version, with solos at every break... he’s next level with that guitar bluegrassy sound...
You are not the only metal head who loves blue grass. True country.
The one with him on the couch was better because he had to play everything.
That one with him on the couch was from several years ago when he couldn't play worth a damn, too
@@guitardudebanjoman lol playing like he did in that old video he couldn't play worth a damn? Lol dude I started playing 3 weeks ago, come watch me play the intro to nothing else matters on my acoustic...I'll show you someone who can't play worth a damn lol
Totally agree. I'd have preferred he reviewed that one.
@@MrMinima86 hey man we all started somewhere. Keep at it and you'll be playing that solo in no time (:
That wook watching him is still standing flat footed as hell in that same spot with his jaw on the floor.
bluegrass to metal and metal to bluegrass seem like natural progressions for guitarists due to the technical magnificence of the genres.
Its amazing to play with a musical prodigy ! Billy played guitar in the womb because you know damn well his daddy was playin 20 long years before some dust in the baggie 💖✌
For the simple mountain folk never afforded college or private lessons baffled by this dude speakin in tongues I will attempt to translate...It's a boom-chuck, lightnin step, barn burner with some chicken pickin, and pappy's lick at every turn around same as the last song and the next one.
If this translation un-twisted your britches be neighborly and read it for those who can't.
Nice.
Nice
Niiiice
I had no idea what this fancy fingerin Hollywood man was Jawin about, thank ya neighbor Ill pass this along to Ma'
@@jacobsmith4457 *Nice
Reminds me of a guy in the 70s named Sam Bush. Look what a legend he became. This guy will be around for decades, unless an asteroid hits him. Hes great and inspiring to watch. I get choked up watching this shit. Good on you.
You have people who have a natural born talent and you have people who try to be them
"This dude sounds like a young Doc Watson". What a compliment. But the kid backs it. It's nice to see some youth (w/ a slight edgy look no less) in keeping the bluegrass traditions alive.
Completely agree! Doc had a huge influence on him (obviously). Billy's dad is an amazing guitar player in his own right as well. He does a great collab with the Del McCoury Band that is awesome.
surprised so many people in this thread haven't heard of Billy....
matthew patrick I know right ?
And the ones that know of him think he started in a metal band
Most of Billy’s shows was all being sold out on his last tour and he was gaining a lot of momentum and then, Coronavirus.
Totally underrated artist
Billy's Dad is no slouch either. Watching those two just wing it made me proud to be blue grass country born. Love little Billy.
I got to meet billy years ago. Went to a bluegrass thing on a whim. Friend got a ticket for me. I grew up playing metal in Michigan. Never cared for country or anything else other than metal. Billy and his mando player don julian shredded my face off on a small stage. Just the two of them and I was musical changed from that point on. He jammed out in the lobby of the hotel with a bunch of random people after his show. Dude is on another level and his music contributions will continue to be great. Thanks for the vid and some awesome insight into the intricacies of a bluegrass band.
Bluegrass Festivals and conventions are the best....after the show everyone's just hanging out jamming together playing old standards. It's an amazing tradition.
Really nice to see someone who understands really exploring this song. I know nothing but I enjoy watching people appreciate skill.
Check out Shakey Graves “late July” a lot to unpack with that one
That video where he talks about how he came up with his name, then plays Late July is great. That was the first song I head from him after looking him up because he was the opener at a Devil Makes Three concert I was going to at Red Rocks.
@@sam_s_ That video is honestly the definitive edition for me. His studio release feels too slow and sleepy, while that live performance of Late July feels perfect.
I wanted to see him at red rocks so bad. I was Lyft driving people in and out of the venue though. His studio release sucked compared to the video that he tells the story of his name. And I haven’t really heard much else from him I actually like.
@@sam_s_ Thats how i found out about him as well. He opened up solo at 930 club for dm3 and no one was really expecting anything from him. The second that creaky soulful voice came on the PA the whole room collectively got whiplash and was glued to the stage.1 year later his name was everywhere, I think thats the fastest ive seen an artist blow up in that scene.
On it!
His banjo player is killer
Fun video I'm from Knoxville Tennesee and bluegrass always takes me back to childhood and puts a smile on my face.
That’s it!!
I'm from Lenoir City myself. I used to go to the Old City and see bluegrass concerts all the time when I was high school and college aged. Good times
@@mattbright2638 Haha my old highschool got Lenore city’s old baseball coach
@@mattbright2638 go panthers
I go to Gibbs so not to far
Billy is a good friend of mine... Kind of a little brother adopted into my family. I just loved seeing a good guitar player struggle with his guitar playing! 😆 I knew the first time I seen him play he was speical. He was unreal as a kid. He really took off at 16, 17, 18. He's played this song in my living room a million times! 😆 Also yes he was a metal head and was in a metal band when he was a kid. Doc Watson was his favorite blue grass player and who he looked up to. Him and his dad... His dad gave him the love for blue grass.
"Clearly, I'm not a miracle worker"...actually laughed out loud on that one. Awesome song and posting. ; = )
Ha! Thanks :)
Billy is amazing that kind of speed and accuracy just blows my mind!
Your first statement is me all the way. Metal head from the start of my passion for music, then I found old crow medicine show and the devil makes three. I am still however a metal head at heart.
You’re very good brother. I’ve been playing for 30 years and Billy blows my mind. Nice job breaking it down
it's great watching you break down something that you don't know "note for note" yet. Most teachers tell you some stuff. Good teachers teach you how to learn and aren't afraid to admit they don't know everything.
love how diverse this channel gets.. running the full breadth of Guitardom. Keep it up!
He's got the perfect bluegrass voice, too. Love to hear it.
Notice how the teacher wipes down his face to get back into teacher mode instead of showing his emotional attachment to this song
Dude you look like a kid in a candy store watching billy play this song awesome to watch even if you don’t like bluegrass you have to respect his playing
You have no idea how many times I’ve also said “Phew... Billy, Billy, Billy...” while attempting to play some of his licks
check the 1st version he did of this.. it kills this version. trailer park shit and it's awesome..
The best part is that Billy doesn't play it the same way every time. He lets the music pick its own evolution.
I've never really played bluegrass but decided to learn this song and solo, and it is about the most difficult tune I've ever tackled. I still can only play his solo cleanly at about 90% speed lol. It blows my mind that Billy can just rip a blazing fast solo like this totally improvising. When I'm improvising I typically hear what I want to play in my head before I play it, but this is so dang fast I have no clue how billy is able to hear this in his head and play it on the spot. Flatpicking is no joke at all, and absolutely every single genre of guitarist out there can learn a TON just by learning stuff like this. If you can pick every single note of a solo like this, you will DEFINITELY become a better player in any style out there. Billy's the real deal.
I have an almost exact testimony as you. I first started playing guitar when I was 13 playing metal and even ended up in a MetallicA cover band playing the drums. I heard bluegrass all my life growing up because my family was from Kentucky and WV but never cared for it until I heard what is now my mentor, play the banjo and I was hooked and had to learn how to play. I went home and sold my B.C. Rich Warlock and Crate amp to buy a banjo! It's been almost 20 years and I never went back to metal. Good vid!
SEE!?!? Right on brother.
Kentucky baby
Billy Strings - Train, Train (live at the Muddy Creek Music Hall) is one of the most insane performances I've ever seen. Even if you don't react to it, do yourself a favor and give it a listen.
The above statement is a fact, its incredible
His solo version of "man of constant sorrow" at the bookstore is mind numbing!
This guy's is the definition of those who can't do, teach. And I don't mean that in a bad way. He's clearly very talented. His understanding and explanation of what Billy is doing shows he knows how to teach it and do it. He just can't do it himself which shows what it takes to be a master like Billy and those he looks up to. I have no doubt that the next great is learning from the host of this video.
Mind BLOWN that the banjo player IS THE GUY IN GREEN SHIRT. I feel like the world now has synchronicity
No.. what?! No way
Is this true? Because that was my first thought...unless Green Shirt Guy is using the force on me
Hahaha. He's not the guy from the basement video.
@@doolbro 🤣🤣🤣
No he isn't. The banjo players name is Billy Failing and he is from Portland/Oregon. He got an own album and is a friend of Billy for 10 years. He is one of the best banjo players I have ever seen in my life. The most amazing thing for me is that they are always improvising their solos... just crazy stuff.
I had a metalhead friend try to tell me he was going to move to nashville and work as a studio musician because country was so much easier. I told him I LOVE metal but you're insane, Nashville is the lions den of musicians.
I've seen some dang good musicians playing on the streets in Nashville
Well if it's those pop country genre, I couldn't see why he wouldn't manage. In my country Sweden there were a bunch of metalheads in the 2000s who started making radio pop because it seemed easier and they became the most successful pop writer in the world (most Grammys or whatever)
One of my strongest memories of seeing "Old and In The Way" was the way they danced around each other to create the mix. I think they had two mikes, one overhead for Vasser, one mike on a mike stand. When I recently told someone about that he called it the "Grand Olde Opry dance".
Billy can pick the strings just about as well as anyone. what a talent!
Those little things that you love so well are affectionately called G-Runs in the world of Bluegrass 🤣
It's called the Lester Flatt G run.
Hearing your analysis really helps me understand why I just can't get enough Billy & the boys. I'm a musician and love to hear your take on this crazy good stuff.
I remember watching the video of Billy on the couch playing his guitar it blew me away! I have been a fan ever since!!
will forget be amazed at how easy michael picks up every single lick and just does it with ease it’s absolutely mesmerizing
So glad he opened for Umphrey’s in Asheville. So good
Those shows were awesome. I thought the roof was gonna come off night two
When I watch Billy my grin is just as big as yours.
When I saw that guy playing on the couch I was straight up amazed. Dude has skills.
"Forgot how he got down there". Had me rolling man! Watching you get as close as you do to he sound has me amazed. Granted I'm just a drummer who likes to dabble in the ol 6 string......... y'all are nuts!!!
I appreciate your humility above all...I know very little about guitar, other than Billy Strings is impressive as hell. But you are an amazing teacher!
Absolute best version of this song is with Don Julin in the woods with just the 3 pieces. Guitar, mandolin, and bass just melting the strings.
Agreed!
Same thing, metal head from Tulsa then moved to Tahlequah Oklahoma. Befriended Bobby and Thomas Trapp and took several trips to the flat picking contests in Winfield Kansas. Changed my life.
I discovered Billy yesterday. Dude is amazing
The one with him sitting around with his friends is the best
I lived for 13 years about 20 miles from Muir...
Born and Raised in Cadillac and damn proud.. ( about 90 miles north).
Billy is the Future!!!
Everything I have listened to by Billy Stings is just out of this world, love the duos with Marcus King!
Check him out with Taz
I’m convinced Billy must have sold his soul to play like that. Incredible.
Watching your videos six months into trying to learn how to play has me feeling like a toddler at the grownups table. I don’t know what you’re talking about, but I know I love it!
You should definitely look into Molly Tuttle for some crosspicking goodness. Immaculate technique! Check out “white freight liner blues”
Definitely! Show the the ladies some love. Molly is incredible! I believe she used to be Billy's roommate.
Better yet watch Molly and Billy playing together as they take turns with lead
Johnerik01 She plays a lot with B. Strings too
"It's so fast!"...thats the dust in the baggie. LOL
Billy started off at the age of about 4 playing bluegrass with his Dad, then he turned to metal. Now he’s back to bluegrass. It’s so fun to watch him flat pick those solos that I find myself rewinding them over and over. Can’t wait to watch him at the Gorge Amphitheater WA in August!
My screamo-metalhead godson turned me on to this guy about a month ago. Apparently Billy's been tearing it up for several years but somehow I missed it. Now I'm all about Billy Strings. Thanks Michael for showcasing this awesomely talented guy.
“Roll the bones” by shakey graves 😁 the audiotree version specifically.
I feel this so hard. I was neck deep in Tool and NIN and such when someone first hit me with Phish, then Del McCoury and Steve Earl with The Mountain. Life changing in very positive ways. Keep up the awesome work man, love your content.
Love it! Sometimes you're the snare, sometimes you're the hi-hat. Awesome!
I’ve recently found Billy Strings and it’s made me a fan of this kind of Bluegrass. This music gives me joy and it’s great to find other folks who enjoy it like I do!
It's awesome he did "Dust in a baggie" on the Opry stage! 🤣😂
I didn't think it was about meth? I thought it was about cannabis.
Congratulations on being clean for 15 years. That's fantastic. Much love and peace to you my brother. Be well and thanks for the education.
Methamphetamines are name dropped in the first verse.
It's wild how many people I've met that were or still are metal heads that fell hard for bluegrass
Not only is Billy strings playing that guitar like no one else he also is singing at the same time. I couldn't even attempt what this man does it's amazing the guy is just amazing